On July 14, 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
responded to a report of a chemical fire at 1919 South Sand Hill Road in
Burrton, Kansas. EPA On-Scene Coordinators (OSCs) found a smoldering pit containing at
least 50 burned containers.
EPA monitored the air in real time and identified volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) within the smoke plume. However, VOCs were not
detected at elevated levels away from the burn pit, indicating widespread impacts
were not present at that time. Additionally, an estimated 577 unburned containers
were staged near the burn pit.
EPA oversaw response actions conducted by the Potentially
Responsible Party (PRP) to stabilize the incident and relocate the containers
into an on-site storage building.
On August 18, 2023, EPA and the PRP entered into a settlement
agreement obligating the PRP to conduct assessment and cleanup actions at the
site. Under this settlement agreement, the PRP will assess and dispose of the
remaining containers; assess and clean up soil in and around the burn pit; and assess
and remediate (if necessary) drinking water wells in the area. All of these
activities will be done under EPA oversight.
EPA anticipates cleanup activities will begin in October 2023.
